How To Clean a KitchenAid Pasta Attachment

Making your own pasta might be one of the most rewarding things you can DIY instead of buy. My sister and her husband do it, and man — there is a difference between what they make and what I bring home in a box from the store!

But if you have a KitchenAid pasta attachment, you know how important it is to keep it clean. And that you’re definitely not supposed to soak the attachment in water or run it through the dishwasher!

Here’s how to properly clean a KitchenAid pasta attachment.

Buy: KitchenAid Pasta Attachment, $99

• A stiff-bristled brush, like a toothbrush
• A toothpick or bamboo skewer
• A soft cotton or microfiber cloth
• Mineral oil

1. Let it sit: Once you’ve finished using the pasta attachment, detach it and set it somewhere to dry for at least an hour. Do not submerge it in water or soak it!
2. Brush off the dried pasta: Once any leftover pasta dough has had a chance to dry, run your stiff-bristled brush gently over the rollers and cutters to detach any leftover pasta.
3. Dig out any stubborn bits: If there is still pasta stuck in the rollers, cutters, or gears, use a toothpick or bamboo skewer to dislodge it. Do not use a sharp metal object (no knives or screwdrivers!) to do this because that can damage the appliance.
4. Wipe the attachment with a cloth: Once you’ve removed all the stuck-on dough, wipe the pieces down with a clean, soft cloth. It’s key to remove any moisture before storing the pasta attachment. But do not run the cloth between the rollers, as that can warp them and break the machine.
5. Add some mineral oil: Once a year, or every 50 uses, place a drop of mineral oil on each of the far corners of the rollers and cutters to lubricate them.
6. Pack it up: We suggest keeping the box your attachment comes in. This way, you can pack it away (with the cleaning brush) and keep it safe for the next time you want to use it.

Related: How To Clean a Stand Mixer